Relais Santa Croce can be found just a short walk from the centre of Florence. Part of the Baglioni collection, this hotel combines everything you might expect from the group; traditional values with modern comforts and excellent service.
The 18th century building is quite the sight for sore eyes. The impressive facade speaks of things to come, and the moment you enter it’s akin to breathing a sigh of relief. The lobby is an impressive space, filled with beautiful furnishings and a frescoed ceiling - features of which are continued throughout the hotel.
“Relais Santa Croce is the perfect hotel for both business and leisure, but ultimately for romance.”
We were warmly greeted upon arrival, and the smile on the staffs’ faces was a very pleasant sight. It’s evident that this must be a good place to work, and must be the cause of the impeccable service we received.
After a quick check-in, we were shown to our suite. Located on the top floor, the suite was not as spacious as others, due to the lower ceilings higher up in the building. This, however, did not detract from the incredible views of the Florence skyline, and we were more than happy to sacrifice the ceiling height for that.
My personal favourite part of the room is that they have maintained the wooden structure on the top floor, which was once used to hold the chandelier for the music room on the ground floor. Although the chandelier no longer remains, the wooden structure itself gives you a good indication as to the sheer size of it - this historical artefact makes for a very interesting feature.
Crisp, white and clean, our suite oozed luxury. The interiors throughout is simply beautiful, and the attention to detail here is second to none, for example, even the corridors are full of gorgeous, notable wall lights. The music room was my personal favourite - an enormous room with very high ceilings and a harp set within the wall. This is just one beautiful example of Italian style that the Relais Santa Croce embraces.
If you like your rooms big, then it’s worth knowing that the Relais Santa Croce holds the title for the largest suite in Florence - so be sure to request it upon booking!
The hotel also boasts a great food offering. Relais Santa Croce’s restaurant, Guelfi e Ghibellini, offers an incredible menu full of gorgeously presented, locally sourced and seasonal dishes. If you’re looking for a seriously special meal, however, it’s also worth checking out Enoteca Pinchiorri - a restaurant located in the same building - that holds no less than three Michelin stars.
Relais Santa Croce really does make for a truly special stay. Our experience from start to finish was faultless. Florence is a wonderful city, which we would urge you to explore. The staff at Relais Santa Croce are only too happy to help you with any local knowledge you may need during your stay, so be sure to make the most of that.
Relais Santa Croce is the perfect hotel for both business and leisure, but ultimately for romance. We would thoroughly recommend you visit, and are looking forward to returning ourselves.